How to Plant Sod Over Existing Asphalt

Just because there is a layer of asphalt on the ground does not mean you cannot change it into a lawn. Grass grows as long as it has enough soil for nourishment and water for moisture. While eliminating the asphalt first is the best option, if that is not possible, a lawn will grow over asphalt if the paving material is first covered with soil. Sod is the practical choice for a quick lawn, both for the quick green, but also to hold soil in place.

Fill dirt
Top soil
Rake
Roller

Instructions

- 1
  Bring in 4 inches or more of fill dirt to form the base for growing sod over asphalt. Grass roots will penetrate about 4 to 5 inches down and should not be able to reach the asphalt if the layer of soil is thick enough.
- 2
  Cover the fill dirt with another 4 inches of topsoil to form the growing surface for the sod. Smooth it out well with a rake to make a level growing surface.
- 3
  Moisten the layers of soil with water until the soil 6 inches down is damp so the roots of the sod will access the water easily and readily. Allow time for the water to percolate down so that you don't create a muddy surface when you are laying the sod.
- 4
  Lay the sod over the damp top soil. Fit each start of a roll of sod up close to the end of the last roll. Keep seams alternating throughout the lawn. Use a roller to press the sod into the soil.
- 5
  Water the planted sod immediately after planting. Continue to water the area every day for the first week until when you tug gently on a section of sod, it resists. Water as needed during the growing season to supplement low rainfall amounts.

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